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The Muslim Council of Elders, under the chairmanship of His Eminence Dr. Ahmed Al-Tayeb, the Grand Imam of Al-Azhar, calls for unified international efforts to combat extremism and terrorism by eradicating their ideological and intellectual roots through the promotion of dialogue, tolerance, and peaceful coexistence.

In a statement marking the International Day of Remembrance and Tribute to the Victims of Terrorism, observed on August 21 each year, the Council reiterates its unequivocal rejection of all forms of violence, hatred, and terrorism, which contradict the teachings of Islam, all divine religions, and international laws. The Council also emphasizes that addressing extremism and terrorism is a religious, human, and moral responsibility requiring the concerted efforts of the global community. The Council also urges support for survivors of terrorist attacks and those affected by rising hate speech, advocating for their positive reintegration into society, addressing the psychological and physical impacts they have endured, and assisting them in reclaiming their normal lives.

The Muslim Council of Elders highlights its significant efforts through various initiatives and projects to promote a culture of peace and human coexistence, correct misconceptions, dismantle extremist ideologies, and raise awareness of the dangers posed by violent and terrorist groups. These efforts include organizing seven rounds of dialogue between East and West, more than 15 international peace convoys across different continents to encourage Muslims to integrate positively into their communities, and launching the Emerging Peacemakers Forum to enhance the role of youth in promoting peace and human coexistence. These initiatives culminated in the signing of the Document on Human Fraternity in Abu Dhabi in 2019 by His Eminence Dr. Ahmed Al-Tayeb and His Holiness Pope Francis. The landmark document, one of the most significant in modern history, asserts that religions have never been a cause for wars or a source of hatred, hostility, or extremism and calls for an end to the support of terrorist movements, considering such support a crime against international peace and security.

The Muslim Council of Elders’ pavilion won the Best Pavilion Award at the 2024 Indonesia International Islamic Book Fair, standing out among local and international institutions, organizations, and publishing houses participating in the event. The fair featured around 128 participants through 217 pavilions and attracted tens of thousands of visitors. It took place from August 14 to 18 in the Indonesian capital, Jakarta. The Council’s participation reflects its mission to promote peace, uphold values of dialogue and tolerance, and build bridges of cooperation among people of different races and beliefs.

The Muslim Council of Elders’ pavilion at the Indonesia International Islamic Book Fair, the largest of its kind in Southeast Asia, was highly praised for its activities and events. The pavilion showcased over 220 publications addressing significant intellectual and cultural issues and organized six seminars discussing various topics, including the role of religious institutions in supporting global peace, ethical education and ways to promote its role in spreading and entrenching values of coexistence and peace, mechanisms to enhance interfaith cooperation for sustainable development, and strategies for promoting religious moderation in the media.

Dr. Mukhlis Muhammad Hanafi, Director of the Council’s branch office in Indonesia, emphasized that the Council’s participation in international book fairs is part of a comprehensive strategy to promote peace and spread values of dialogue and tolerance globally. He explained that the Council is keen to ensure that its participation is not just about showcasing books or intellectual publications but providing a platform for organizing scholarly seminars and open discussions aimed at raising awareness of the importance of mutual understanding and acceptance of others, and fostering a culture of dialogue among various social, religious, and cultural groups.

The Muslim Council of Elders concluded its participation in the fair, marking its third consecutive year, with several activities and events that attracted a large number of visitors. The attendees were eager to visit the pavilion daily to explore the latest and most important publications by the Council’s publishing house and participate in the seminars and events organized by the Council’s branch in Indonesia.

It is worth noting that the Muslim Council of Elders is an independent international organization established in Abu Dhabi in 2019, under the chairmanship of His Eminence Prof. Dr. Ahmed Al-Tayeb, Grand Imam of Al-Azhar, and includes a number of scholars, wise figures, and notable figures known for their independence and moderation. The Council aims to promote peace and spread the values of dialogue, tolerance, and human coexistence.

The Secretary-General of the Muslim Council of Elders, His Excellency Judge Mohamed Abdelsalam, welcomed Professor Dr. Mohamed Abdel Rahman El-Duwaini, Deputy of Al-Azhar, and Dr. Ahmed Abdel Aziz Al-Haddad, Member of the Muslim Council of Elders and Member of the UAE Council for Fatwa, and Senior Mufti of the Fatwa Department in Dubai, during their visit to the Council’s pavilion at the International Istanbul Arabic Book Fair. The fair took place from August 10 to 18 in Istanbul.

During the visit, Professor Dr. Mohamed Abdel Rahman El-Duwaini and Dr. Ahmed Abdel Aziz Al-Haddad reviewed the activities and events organized by the Council’s pavilion and its diverse publications. They commended the outstanding efforts of the Muslim Council of Elders, under the leadership of His Eminence Prof. Dr. Ahmed Al-Tayeb, Grand Imam of Al-Azhar, in promoting the values of tolerance, peaceful coexistence, and acceptance and respect for others. They particularly highlighted the significant role played by “Al-Hokama Publishing,” which, through its publications, provides a valuable wealth of knowledge that enriches the Islamic and Arabic libraries, offers new perspectives on modern intellectual and cultural issues, corrects misconceptions, and presents enlightened, moderate thought.

The Secretary-General of the Muslim Council of Elders welcomed the visit of the Deputy of Al-Azhar and the Member of the Muslim Council of Elders and UAE Council for Fatwa, and Senior Mufti of the Fatwa Department in Dubai. He emphasized that the Council is committed to participating in a meaningful and distinguished manner in various international book fairs, in line with its mission to promote peace, uphold the values of dialogue and tolerance, and build bridges of cooperation among people of different races and beliefs. These fairs are seen as international platforms and bridges for intellectual and cultural exchange between different cultures and as an effective means of raising awareness among nations and peoples about human principles and values.

It is worth noting that this is the third consecutive year that the Muslim Council of Elders has participated with a special pavilion at the International Istanbul Arabic Book Fair, the largest international Arabic book fair held outside the Arab world. The fair aims to revive the Arabic language in Turkey and strengthen the bond between Arabs and Turks. It attracts the Arab community residing in Turkey, as well as many Turkish citizens interested in the Arabic language and its sciences.

The Muslim Council of Elders’ pavilion concluded its participation in the 22nd edition of the Indonesia International Islamic Book Fair 2024, held in the Indonesian capital, Jakarta, by organizing a cultural seminar titled “Strategy for Mainstreaming Religious Moderation and Balance in the Media.” The seminar was presented by Habib Hussein Jafar, a well-known Indonesian social media activist and influencer, and moderated by Nasih Nasrallah, a journalist at Republika newspaper. The seminar addressed the role of media in promoting the values of religious moderation and balance and discussed mechanisms for utilizing media platforms to guide public opinion towards a balanced and moderate understanding of religious values, while avoiding extremism and fanaticism. It also highlighted the importance of moderation as a methodology that enhances social peace and curbs the spread of extremist ideas that undermine social cohesion and negatively impact the stability of societies.

At the beginning of the seminar, Habib Hussein Jafar praised the role of the Muslim Council of Elders and its various initiatives, noting that he takes inspiration from the Council’s pioneering experience in his advocacy for spreading the values of moderation, tolerance, and human coexistence among different religious and cultural communities. He also expressed his appreciation for the Council’s participation in the Indonesia International Islamic Book Fair, which aligns with the Council’s ongoing commitment to supporting efforts to raise intellectual awareness among Muslims and to shed light on key intellectual and cultural issues. This is rooted in the belief that deepening knowledge among individuals in different societies contributes to promoting values of moderation and tolerance, making them more open to accepting and respecting others.

Habib Hussein Jafar also emphasized that the concepts of openness, tolerance, and coexistence with others are fundamental values in Islam. He explained that openness is not merely an intellectual stance but a necessity for a deeper understanding of Islam, which is embodied in the recognition that truth may be distributed among various viewpoints. He highlighted that the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) was a model of openness to others, reflecting the true image of Islam based on dialogue and acceptance of diversity. Openness and moderation, he stated, are not signs of weakness but rather evidence of strong faith and certainty.

The social media activist also pointed out the unique friendship between His Eminence Prof. Dr. Ahmed Al-Tayeb, Grand Imam of Al-Azhar and Chairman of the Muslim Council of Elders, and His Holiness Pope Francis, the Pontiff of the Catholic Church, which led to the signing of the Document on Human Fraternity. This document represents one of the most important initiatives contributing to the promotion of understanding and peaceful coexistence between religions. He affirmed that moderation is an integral part of the message of Islam, aimed at guiding people towards moderation so they can engage in dialogue, mutual understanding, and spread love and cooperation for the good of humanity.

On the occasion of World Humanitarian Day, observed annually on August 19th, the Muslim Council of Elders, under the chairmanship of His Eminence Prof. Dr. Ahmed Al-Tayeb, Grand Imam of Al-Azhar, calls for intensified international efforts to protect millions of innocent civilians who are suffering from dire humanitarian conditions due to food, water, and medicine shortages caused by the escalation of wars, conflicts, and crises in various regions around the world. These crises have led to an increase in the number of refugees, displaced persons, and those who have lost their homes and shelter.

In a statement issued on this occasion, the Muslim Council of Elders emphasizes that humanitarian work is one of the greatest duties advocated by all divine religions, particularly Islam, which calls for compassion and solidarity. This is a necessity dictated by our shared humanity. The Council highlights the need to work towards rebuilding hope for millions of innocent civilians who are suffering from the horrors of crises, disasters, wars, and conflicts. It also underscores the importance of providing necessary protection for humanitarian workers, offering them support and assistance, and stopping attacks against them.

The Muslim Council of Elders is making significant efforts to emphasize the importance of promoting values of dialogue, tolerance, and peaceful coexistence, raising awareness about the importance of humanitarian and social solidarity, and extending a helping hand to every human being, especially the vulnerable and those most in need. This is in line with the principles outlined in the Document on Human Fraternity, signed by His Eminence Prof. Dr. Ahmed Al-Tayeb, Grand Imam of Al-Azhar and Chairman of the Muslim Council of Elders, and His Holiness Pope Francis, the Pontiff of the Catholic Church, in Abu Dhabi in 2019.

The Muslim Council of Elders’ pavilion at the Indonesia International Islamic Book Fair organized a cultural seminar titled “The Role of Religion in Promoting Cultural Diversity.” The seminar was presented by Dr. Lukman Hakim Saifuddin, the former Minister of Religious Affairs of the Republic of Indonesia, and Prof. Oman Fathurrahman, a professor of Jurisprudence of Language at Syarif Hidayatullah State Islamic University in Jakarta. The seminar was moderated by Dr. Mukhlis Muhammad Hanafi, Director of the Branch Office of the Muslim Council of Elders in Indonesi, and was attended by many  exhibition visitors, students from religious institutes, and university students.

At the beginning of the seminar, participants praised the efforts of the Muslim Council of Elders and its active role in spreading and enhancing the values of tolerance, coexistence, and human fraternity through its inspiring initiatives and projects, including the dialogue between the East and the West, international peace convoys, and its diverse publications that contribute to forming an enlightened intellectual awareness. This is in addition to organizing seminars and conferences aimed at establishing constructive intellectual dialogue on contemporary issues and challenges.

Dr. Lukman Hakim Saifuddin stated that the Council plays a crucial and strategic role in preserving the valuable heritage left by the righteous ancestors, not only by safeguarding it but also by updating and developing it to align with the rapid changes occurring in the world today, to ensure the continuity of this legacy and its ability to engage with present challenges. He explained that religion and culture form an interconnected unity that cannot be separated, despite their differences, citing the Indonesian model as a global example due to the integration of religion and culture within it.

The former Minister of Religious Affairs of the Republic of Indonesia added that religion carries divine values that need a practical framework to translate them into tangible reality, and this framework is culture. Without culture, religious values remain merely theoretical principles without activation. Culture represents the way people deal with their challenges and turn them into habits and traditions. He noted that culture is essential for activating religious teachings in daily life, making religious values part of reality. Despite the diversity of cultures, the fundamental religious values remain constant and non-negotiable.

Dr. Oman Fathurrahman emphasized the importance of the integration between religion and culture in promoting cultural diversity. He noted that cultural diversity is a distinctive feature of Indonesia and Southeast Asia. Looking at the development of writing traditions in Indonesia since the 16th century, Indonesian scholars began using the Jawi script (Malay language in Arabic script) in writing, which significantly contributed to the spread of Islam outside the Arabian Peninsula, making culture a fundamental factor in expanding the reach of Islam.

The professor of Jurisprudence of Language at Syarif Hidayatullah State Islamic University in Jakarta pointed out that the oldest known Indonesian manuscript is “Sultan of Sultans,” which recounts the history of the kings of Pasai and is written in Malay using Arabic script. The development of Arabic script writing was not limited to the Java region but also included other areas in Indonesia. He explained that this development in writing reflects the role of culture in promoting the spread of Islam, and the diversity in Islamic civilizations including Arab, Turkish, American, and Indonesian, highlighting how culture contributed to the widespread and diverse spread of Islam across different geographical and cultural regions.

The Muslim Council of Elders participates for the third consecutive time in the 22nd edition of the Indonesia International Islamic Book Fair, held from August 14 to 18, 2024, in Jakarta, Indonesia. The Council’s participation, based in “JCC hall A&B,” stems from its mission to promote peace, establish values of dialogue and tolerance, and bridge cooperation among people of different races and beliefs. The pavilion offers over 220 publications in various languages that address key intellectual and cultural issues, working to clear misconceptions and spread enlightened and moderate thought.

At the International Istanbul Arabic Book Fair, the Muslim Council of Elders’s booth organized a cultural seminar titled “The Role of the Muslim Council of Elders in Promoting Intra-Muslim Dialogue.” The seminar was presented by Dr. Samir Boudinar, Director of the Al-Hokama Center for Peace Research. It discussed several key topics, including ways to enhance communication and understanding among the components of the Muslim nation, as well as the challenges currently facing the Islamic world, which require the unification of efforts among its people and the avoidance of all causes of disagreement, conflict, and division.

At the beginning of the seminar, Dr. Samir Boudinar stated that scholars and academic institutions have always been a fundamental pillar in achieving the unity of the Muslim Ummah and strengthening its social cohesion. He cited prominent examples from Islamic history, such as Al-Azhar University, which is a beacon of Islamic knowledge and jurisprudence. He explained that these institutions have always been, and continue to be, a fortress for preserving Islamic cultural values and identity, which unify the Ummah.

The Director of the Al-Hokama Center for Peace Research added that the Muslim Council of Elders is one of the international institutions that has, since its establishment, worked to promote the values of fraternity and unity among Muslims of different sects and affiliations, avoiding anything that could lead to division or discrimination. This approach is evident in all the Council’s publications, which have taken a unifying tone aimed at consolidating shared values among Muslims, enhancing understanding and closeness between them. This has also been demonstrated through the Council’s various initiatives and activities, which have included different Muslim communities without discrimination, and have been based on shared human and Islamic values, such as international peace caravans and its branches abroad in Indonesia, Malaysia, Pakistan, and Uzbekistan. The Council has also emphasized effective communication with Muslims in the West, promoting their positive integration into their societies, and combating the phenomenon of Islamophobia. The Council’s efforts have not been limited to publications or convoys but have extended to organizing global conferences and seminars that have brought together scholars and leaders from various sects under one roof, with the aim of fostering constructive dialogue and bridging differences in viewpoints, reaffirming the importance of enhancing Islamic unity and rejecting fanaticism and sectarianism.

Dr. Samir Boudinar praised the call by His Eminence, the Grand Imam of Al-Azhar, Professor Dr. Ahmed Al-Tayeb, Chairman of the Muslim Council of Elders, during the “Bahrain Dialogue Forum” to enhance Islamic affairs and Muslim unity, emphasizing that religious fraternity is the foundation of human fraternity. He pointed out that His Eminence’s call focused on the importance of the common customs that unify Muslims and avoiding sectarian conflicts, which are among the biggest challenges facing the Muslim Ummah today. He highlighted the necessity of adopting a language of tolerance and coexistence among Muslims by promoting shared human values that call for love and peace, as well as moving beyond outdated historical discourses that incite conflicts, and focusing on future-oriented discourse aimed at building a strong and cohesive society based on mutual understanding and respect.

The Muslim Council of Elders is participating for the third consecutive year with a special booth at the 9th edition of the International Istanbul Arabic Book Fair 2024, held from August 10 to 18 in Istanbul, Turkey. The Council’s participation aligns with its mission to promote peace, consolidate the values of dialogue and tolerance, and build bridges of cooperation among people of different races and beliefs. The Council’s pavilion is located in Hall 9, Booth B42 at the Istanbul Expo Center.

The Muslim Council of Elders’ booth at the Indonesia International Islamic Book Fair organized a cultural seminar titled “Religion and Environmental Issues: Interfaith Cooperation for Sustainable Development.” The seminar was presented by Dr. Fakhruddin Mangunjaya, Head of the Islamic Studies Center at the National University of Indonesia, and Dr. Mukhlis Muhammad Hanafi, Director of the Branch Office of the Muslim Council of Elders in Indonesia. The seminar discussed ways to activate the role of religions in guiding human behavior and enhancing moral commitment towards caring for the environment and protecting its natural resources.

At the beginning of the seminar, Dr. Fakhruddin Mangunjaya, Head of the Islamic Studies Center at the National University of Indonesia, spoke about the three main environmental crises facing humanity today: climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution. He emphasized the vital role that religions can play in addressing these challenges by promoting the concept of moral responsibility and encouraging a shift in human behavior towards respecting and preserving the environment.

Dr. Mangunjaya pointed out that the role of religion does not exist in isolation from other influencing factors but complements the effects of education, legislation, and laws in achieving effective and sustainable change in the practices of individuals and communities to protect the environment. He explained that religion can effectively contribute to changing individual and community practices by serving as an ethical reference, holding individuals accountable, promoting principles of mutual respect, curbing excessive consumption, and redistributing resources fairly.

Dr. Mukhlis Muhammad Hanafi, Director of the Branch Office of the Muslim Council of Elders in Indonesia, stated that all humans, regardless of their beliefs or religions, share a common responsibility to protect the Earth and ensure its sustainability for future generations. He clarified that different religions, at their core teachings, call for the care and preservation of the environment because protecting the environment and its natural resources is not only a critical need for the continuity of life but also a part of the ethical and religious duties that individuals must faithfully adhere to.

The Muslim Council of Elders is participating with a special booth for the third consecutive time at the 22nd edition of the Indonesia International Islamic Book Fair 2024, held from August 14 to 18 in the Indonesian capital, Jakarta. The Council’s participation stems from its mission to promote peace, establish the values of dialogue and tolerance, and build bridges of cooperation among people of different races and beliefs. The booth, located in “JCC Hall A&B,” offers more than 220 publications in various languages that address major intellectual and cultural issues, aiming to correct misconceptions and spread enlightened, moderate thought.

The Muslim Council of Elders’ booth at the Indonesia International Islamic Book Fair hosted its third cultural seminar titled: “Ethics Education: Integrating Values of Coexistence and Peace in Religious Education.” The seminar was presented by Dr. Tabib Al-Ashhar, Director of Teacher Management at Islamic Schools in the Indonesian Ministry of Religious Affairs, and moderated by Mr. Muhammad Arifin, Director of Al-Azhar Center for Arabic Language Teaching in Jakarta. The discussion focused on methods for incorporating values of coexistence and peace into religious education and the impact of these efforts on creating future generations characterized by moderation and balance, capable of building tolerant societies that respect diversity and embrace others. 

At the beginning of the seminar, Dr. Tabib Al-Ashhar highlighted that the Ministry of Religious Affairs has adopted a set of educational policies aimed at introducing middle and high school students under its jurisdiction to the values of tolerance and peaceful coexistence. The goal is to nurture a generation of students who embody moderation and enlightened thinking, aligning with the vision and mission of the Muslim Council of Elders, under the leadership of His Eminence Prof. Dr. Ahmed Al-Tayeb, Grand Imam of Al-Azhar, which advocates for the promotion of peace and the reinforcement of values of dialogue, tolerance, and human coexistence.

Dr. Tabib Al-Ashhar further emphasized that religious schools in Indonesia are highly regarded by the Indonesian community because they serve as educational institutions that meet diverse societal needs. These schools contribute to building a culture of tolerance through an inclusive and open approach. Islamic schools collaborate with teachers of general subjects such as mathematics, science, and English from various religious backgrounds. This cooperation reflects the commitment of religious schools to embracing diversity and promoting a culture of tolerance within educational institutions.

The Muslim Council of Elders is participating for the third consecutive time in the 22nd edition of the Indonesia International Islamic Book Fair 2024, held from August 14 to 18 in the Indonesian capital, Jakarta. The Council’s participation is rooted in its mission to promote peace, reinforce values of dialogue and tolerance, and build bridges of cooperation among people of different races and beliefs. The booth, located in JCC Hall A&B, features more than 220 publications in various languages that address key intellectual and cultural issues, aiming to correct misconceptions and spread enlightened, moderate thinking.

His Excellency Dr. Muhammad Quraish Shihab, Member of the Muslim Council of Elders: The Council seeks, through its various efforts and initiatives, to spread and promote the values of peace, tolerance, and human coexistence

The Secretary-General of the Muhammadiyah Association: The adoption of the concept of national identity by major religious associations in Indonesia has contributed to achieving harmony and coexistence among the various sects in the country

Representative of the Nahdlatul Ulama: Religious institutions in Indonesia play a positive role in promoting the values of human fraternity 

The Muslim Council of Elders’ booth at the Indonesia International Islamic Book Fair organized a cultural seminar titled “The Role of Religious Institutions in Supporting Global Peace Through the Experiences of the Nahdlatul Ulama and Muhammadiyah Association.” The seminar was presented by the esteemed scholar His Excellency Dr. Muhammad Quraish Shihab, a member of the Muslim Council of Elders and former Minister of Religious Affairs of the Republic of Indonesia; Dr. Abdul Mu’ti, Secretary-General of the Muhammadiyah Association; and Dr. Uli al-Absar Abdullah, representative of the Nahdlatul Ulama. The seminar was moderated by Mr. Muhammad Arifin, Director of the Al-Azhar Center for Arabic Language Teaching in Jakarta.

The seminar, held on the main stage of the exhibition and attended by a large and engaged audience, discussed pioneering experiences presented by various religious and international institutions in the field of spreading and fostering peace. At the forefront is the Muslim Council of Elders, an independent international body established in 2014 under the leadership of His Eminence Prof. Dr. Ahmed Al-Tayeb, the Grand Imam of Al-Azhar and President of the Muslim Council of Elders. The Council includes a number of the most prominent scholars, experts, and dignitaries of the Muslim world known for their wisdom, moderation, justice, and independence. The Council aims to promote peace and spread and enhance the values of dialogue, tolerance, and human coexistence. The seminar also highlighted the experiences of the Muhammadiyah Association and Nahdlatul Ulama, the two major Islamic organizations in Indonesia, which were awarded the Zayed Award for Human Fraternity on February 4, 2024. These organizations have played a significant role in promoting peace not only in Indonesia but also internationally.

At the beginning of the seminar, the esteemed scholar His Excellency Dr. Muhammad Quraish Shihab, member of the Muslim Council of Elders and former Minister of Religious Affairs of the Republic of Indonesia, stated that the Council seeks, through its various efforts and initiatives, to spread and promote the values of peace, tolerance, and human coexistence. He explained that the Council has held seven rounds of dialogue between East and West, culminating in the signing of the most important document in modern human history, the Document on Human Fraternity, signed by Al-Azhar’s Grand Imam, Prof. Dr. Ahmed Al-Tayeb, and Pope Francis, Pontiff of the Catholic Church, in Abu Dhabi in 2019. Additionally, the Council has launched more than 15 international peace convoys across the world’s continents to correct misconceptions, encourage Muslims to positively integrate into their societies, and protect them from falling into the traps of extremist and terrorist groups.

Dr. Muhammad Quraish Shihab further emphasized that the Council firmly believes in the important role of youth in creating peace and enhancing human coexistence. Therefore, it has launched many initiatives and activities to develop their talents, refine their skills, and support their efforts in building peace and human coexistence. These include initiatives such as the “Emerging Peacemakers Forum,” “The Global Student Dialogue Program on Human Fraternity,” and “The Ethics Education Program.” He also mentioned that the Council has organized numerous international seminars and conferences that discussed issues and topics related to spreading and enhancing the culture of peace and human coexistence.

For his part, Dr. Abdul Mu’ti, Secretary-General of the Muhammadiyah Association, affirmed that major religious associations in Indonesia, such as the Muhammadiyah Association and the Nahdlatul Ulama, have managed to combine their traditional religious values with the requirements of national identity by adopting a comprehensive and flexible national vision. This has contributed to achieving harmony and coexistence among the various sects in the country, building a cohesive and united society capable of facing political and social challenges. He noted that the Indonesian experience has become an inspiring model for Islamic countries.

Similarly, Dr. Uli al-Absar Abdullah, representative of the Nahdlatul Ulama, explained that the human fraternity model presented by the Nahdlatul Ulama in Indonesia is one of the most prominent examples of the positive role that religious institutions can play in addressing conflicts and disputes and in promoting and enhancing the values of peace, tolerance, and human coexistence. He highlighted Indonesia’s pioneering experience in promoting tolerance and human coexistence, where a diverse religious plurality coexists in remarkable social harmony.

The Muslim Council of Elders is participating for the third consecutive time with a special booth at the 22nd edition of the Indonesia International Islamic Book Fair 2024, which is being held from August 14 to 18 in the Indonesian capital, Jakarta. The Council’s participation aligns with its mission to promote peace, reinforce the values of dialogue and tolerance, and build bridges of cooperation among people of different races and beliefs. The booth, located in JCC Hall A&B, features more than 220 publications in various languages that address key intellectual and cultural issues, aiming to correct misconceptions and promote enlightened moderate thought.